Joseph Blowick facts for kids

Joseph Blowick (born 13 March 1903 – died 12 August 1970) was an important Irish politician. He was a member of the political party called Clann na Talmhan. Joseph Blowick served as the Minister for Lands twice, from 1948 to 1951 and again from 1954 to 1957. He also led his party, Clann na Talmhan, from 1944 to 1965. For many years, from 1943 to 1965, he was a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Mayo South area. A TD is like a member of parliament in Ireland.

Joseph Blowick's Family Life

Joseph Blowick was born in Belcarra, County Mayo, Ireland, on 13 March 1903. His father, John Blowick, was a farmer, and his mother was Honoria "Norah" Blowick. Joseph had two sisters and four brothers. Interestingly, three of his brothers became priests: Stephen, John Blowick, and Peter Blowick.

Joseph went to the local school in his area. After finishing school, he worked on his father's large farm. Since his brothers became priests, Joseph later took over the family farm.

In January 1956, when he was 53 years old, Joseph Blowick married Teresa O'Malley. She was 19 at the time and from Castleburke, also in County Mayo. Together, they had seven children: four sons and three daughters.

Joseph Blowick's Political Journey

Joseph Blowick's first step into politics was becoming a member of the Mayo County Council. This council helps manage local affairs in County Mayo.

He was first elected to Dáil Éireann in 1943. Dáil Éireann is the main parliament of Ireland. He became a TD (Member of Parliament) for the Mayo South area. His party, Clann na Talmhan, won ten seats across Ireland that year. Joseph Blowick took over as the leader of his party in 1944, following Michael Donnellan.

After the 1948 election, his party had fewer seats, but they were still important. They joined a group of parties to form a "coalition government." This means several parties work together to lead the country. Joseph Blowick was chosen to be part of the Cabinet in two of these coalition governments. He served under John A. Costello as the Minister for Lands both times. As Minister for Lands, he was in charge of policies related to land use and ownership in Ireland.

Joseph Blowick was re-elected as a TD in every election until 1965. That year, he decided to retire from politics.

He passed away on 12 August 1970 in a hospital in Dublin.